ILIGAN City — Grade 6 learners in Lanao del Norte are getting more opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as the Philippine Science High School–Northern Mindanao Campus (PSHS-NMC), Department of Education (DepEd)–Lanao del Norte and the provincial government launched the SPARK Outreach Program 2026–2027 and Beyond. 

Held Sept. 22 at the Lanao del Norte National Comprehensive High School Grandstand in Baroy, the program brought together learners, teachers, education officials and facilitators from schools across the province for hands-on and experiential STEM activities. 

With the theme “Empowering Teachers, Igniting Young Minds, Opening Pathways to PSHS,” the program seeks to strengthen Grade 6 learners’ STEM foundation while helping teachers use more innovative and inquiry-based approaches in the classroom. 

For learners, the program also provides an early look at opportunities available through the Philippine Science High School system. 

Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Edwin R. Maribojoc, CESO V, encouraged learners to recognize their potential and prepare for the PSHS National Competitive Examination. 

He said the presence of PSHS-NMC in Northern Mindanao gives learners in Lanao del Norte an opportunity to pursue a science-focused education closer to home. 

Maribojoc also reaffirmed DepEd Lanao del Norte’s commitment to working with PSHS-NMC and the provincial government to expand STEM learning opportunities. 

PSHS representative Engr. Rachel P. Macamay said the program reflects the partners’ shared goal of empowering teachers and building stronger STEM foundations among young learners. 

She urged teachers to bring the lessons and approaches from the outreach program back to their classrooms. 

“Let us keep this spark alive,” Macamay said, encouraging teachers to turn what they learned into opportunities that can help change their learners’ lives. 

PSHS-NMC Director Dr. Chuchi P. Garganera also shared her journey from DepEd to the Philippine Science High School system, where she began working in 2000. 

Garganera described her return to Northern Mindanao as a meaningful “full circle” and recalled the development of PSHS’ presence in Lanao del Norte, crediting local leaders and government partners for their support. 

She urged learners to believe in their abilities, take advantage of learning opportunities and consider STEM education as one pathway toward their future goals. 

The SPARK program is expected to continue supporting teachers and learners as PSHS-NMC, DepEd Lanao del Norte and the provincial government work to expand STEM opportunities across the province.